Overview
- Internet watchdogs NetBlocks and Cloudflare reported a near-total shutdown of internet access and international phone service across Iran on Thursday night.
- Rights groups cited at least 42 deaths and more than 2,200 detentions, with Amnesty International alleging unlawful use of live fire, metal pellets, water cannon, tear gas and beatings.
- Verified videos and reports described large rallies in Tehran, Mashhad and Isfahan, a major fire at the state broadcaster’s offices, and attacks on state symbols including a toppled Soleimani statue.
- Iran’s judiciary warned there would be no leniency and state media blamed foreign 'terrorist agents' while acknowledging casualties, as President Masoud Pezeshkian urged restraint.
- President Donald Trump renewed warnings that the U.S. would 'hit them very hard' if authorities begin killing protesters, and Reza Pahlavi urged European leaders to back efforts to keep Iranians online.